Strings in the earth and air
Make
music sweet;
Strings by the
river where
The
willows meet.
There's music along the river
For Love wanders there,
Pale flowers on his mantle,
Dark leaves on his hair.
All softly playing,
With head to the music bent,
And fingers straying
Upon an instrument.
- James Joyce, Chamber Music.
This poem was described by Joyce as a prelude, and it is believed the river alluded to is the Tolka.